A unique project is taking shape at UNBC’s Prince George campus.
Cree/Dakelh artist Clayton Gauthier is carving 32 cedar planks that represent various First Nations which will surround the walls of the university’s Gathering Place.
Cree/Dakelh artist Clayton Gauthier is carving designs on cedar planks to represnet various and diverse northern B.C. First Nations communities. Once completed, the 32 panels will be displayed in the Gathering Place.
It’s all part of Nenachalhuya – The Cedar Plank Project. Nenachalhuya is a Dakelh word meaning, “You have done us great honour” or “we are thankful for what you have done.”
The artwork for each of the planks was submitted by B.C. First Nations communities which they have chosen to reflect their community and students.
“This is a special opportunity for the University to partner with multiple Indigenous communities in the spirit of reconciliation,” said UNBC President Dr. Daniel Weeks in a news release. “This project allows the entire campus community to learn from a highly-respected artist as he shares his expertise and knowledge.
Gauthier will be on campus twice per week near the Canfor Winter Garden and all are welcome to join him while while he works.
“I really see the significance of art within the community and worldwide,” he said. “Art is a powerful gift that we have from the Creator. We are surrounded by art, so having that understanding that this is art from this territory, I feel that’s really important.
“As Indigenous people, we travelled by art. The rock paintings and the rock carvings, we travelled by those, so they were really important.”
